How a Greenland shark's heart can beat for centuries
Briefly

How a Greenland shark's heart can beat for centuries
"Greenland sharks have a heart that beats about once every 12 seconds, swim at an average speed of just a foot per second, and grow at a rate of one centimeter a year."
"These sharks can live comfortably into their 200s and possibly to 400 or more, with their eyesight remaining functional in low light for more than a century."
"The genome of the Greenland shark is rich in genes linked to anti-inflammation, cancer suppression, and resistance to cellular damage, contributing to their longevity."
"Research indicates that the shark's heart may be armored against aging, providing insights that could inform strategies to extend human life spans."
Greenland sharks live exceptionally slow lives, with heartbeats every 12 seconds and growth rates of just one centimeter per year. They can live for over 200 years, with some possibly reaching 400. Recent studies reveal their eyesight remains functional in low light for over a century. Their genome contains genes associated with anti-inflammation and cancer suppression. Research on their heart tissue suggests it may be resistant to aging, providing insights that could help extend human lifespan.
Read at www.scientificamerican.com
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